MAERUA MALL BEGINS INTERIOR UPGRADE

Windhoek, 01 February 2017 – Maerua Mall, established in 1990, is Windhoek’s original shopping centre. Located close to the heart of Namibia’s capital city and bordering the eastern suburbs, it welcomes over nine million shoppers every year. Carel Fourie, CEO of Oryx Properties, the owner of the centre, describes it as “more than a shopping experience: It offers everything from convenient shopping to an unforgettable dining experience”.

This year, the well-known and vibrant mall will undergo a complete facelift, bringing both its look and its offerings up to date. New and exciting tenants are joining this much loved mall with the first John Dory’s in Namibia set to open its doors, Queenspark, Cappellos and Checkers Liquor. The phased upgrade offers everything under one roof, from entertainment and dining to leisure and shopping. Public areas and walkways will be upgraded in keeping with the new, contemporary look, while a timber-slatted ceiling suspended with liquid-crystal light hoops will be installed.

The food court will be redesigned over two levels, making space for great new restaurants. An outside eating area will offer close proximity to the family entertainment centre “We’re excited to be introducing a trampoline park, glow-in-the-dark putt-putt, bowling alley, a climbing wall and much more,” says centre manager Thea Thornley.

The mall’s four entrances and ample parking, including dedicated parking for the disabled and elderly, as well as moms and tots make access a breeze.

The mall is named after the trees that surround it. Ringwoods (Maerua schinzii) are a protected species in Namibia. “The tree is symbolic of sustainability and vitality, and this resonates with our ethos,” says Fourie.

The mall’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its N$17-million 1MWp rooftop solar-power plant, which generates about 20% of the centre’s electricity. The 1 407MWh generated by the plant during the 2016 financial year reduced the mall’s CO2emissions by 1 128 tons.